The Changing Chalk partnership has launched a new community grants scheme in eastern Sussex. The Changing Chalk Community Grants scheme will deliver funding to groups who can make a difference in the local area and support Changing Chalk’s overall vision of creating a sustainable future for the eastern South Downs.

The scheme, in partnership with The National Lottery Heritage Fund, will award small grants between £250 and £5,000. Applications up to £10,000 will also be considered for habitat projects focussing on priority chalk grassland. In total, the scheme aims to award £150,000 during the lifetime of the Changing Chalk Project. The scheme will run for three years with two funding rounds per year and the final funding round in Summer 2025. The deadline for Round 1 applications is 30th April 2023.

Projects funded under the new grants scheme will deliver activities within the Changing Chalk project area and support delivery of the partnership’s objectives under the three themes – Restoring Chalkland Diversity, Connecting Downs and Towns, and Hearts and Histories of the Downs.  Examples of what could be funded under the scheme include: outdoor and wellbeing activities to engage local groups in the natural or cultural heritage of the Downs, tools or equipment for volunteer groups to help manage chalk grassland habitats, community research or arts projects which explore people’s cultural connection with the Downs.   

Applications are encouraged from local community and voluntary organisations and charities. Schools and parish or town councils will be eligible to apply if their project demonstrates wider community involvement and benefit.   For more information about the Changing Chalk Community Grants Scheme, including eligibility criteria and how to apply, CLICK HERE.

Changing Chalk is a partnership of organisations led by the National Trust. It aims to restore and protect the internationally rare chalk grassland on the eastern South Downs, bring histories to life, and provide new experiences in the outdoors to those who need it most. The 4-year Changing Chalk delivery phase commenced in April 2022 and is supported by a £2.23m Heritage Fund grant, support from players of the People’s Postcode Lottery and The Linbury Trust.